Saturday, May 26, 2012
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
We’re Home
Our team made it through a fortnight in Liberia, and everyone did an amazing job. I am so proud of the team and so thankful for everyone who supported us in a large number of ways. As we all continue to process all that God did during our trip I ask that the prayers for the team do not cease. The stories are amazing so please do not hesitate to ask about Liberia as you see your friends and family who are returning. The pictures, video, and gifts will be coming to our supporters soon.
I thank God for such an awesome team, and I thank all of you who have been reading this blog and praying for us.
(CHECK servicetoservants.com FOR PICTURES AND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT LIBERIA)
Thanks and God Bless
Brad Chahoy
I thank God for such an awesome team, and I thank all of you who have been reading this blog and praying for us.
(CHECK servicetoservants.com FOR PICTURES AND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT LIBERIA)
Thanks and God Bless
Brad Chahoy
Saturday (Day 15) Spending the morning with Joshua Milton Blahyi and leaving for the airport
Church Sunday
The younger members of our team headed to Chocolate City to visit Joshua and his church while our elders Dave and Rodney went to Robert Cuppah’s church. For Cuppah’s church Dave was asked to lead a lesson for Sunday school while Rodney preached the sermon for the congregation. I wish we all could have been there, but our experience with Joshua was one that I will never forget.
Joshua Milton Blahyi is known as General Butt Naked by most of Liberia, because of his previous life during the war. He was a traditional tribal priest from the same tribe as the late President Samuel K. Doe, and he was a man of major influence during the war. His priesthood was under a demonic deity and human sacrifice was a common practice of worship within his tribe. When war broke out between his tribe and Charles Taylor he became known as General Butt Naked, because he and his men would fight naked. Coming from this lifestyle or deity worship, war, and human sacrifice Joshua has a redemptive story of how Jesus Christ lead him to repentance and salvation in him.
Hearing the story of Joshua Blahyi (former General Butt Naked) prior to going to Liberia, he was a man my team had to meet. I had to see with my own eyes if he was the real deal. The team had to see how Jesus Christ can change a man previously known as a murderer and a rapist to an evangelist in the name of Jesus Christ. With the history of the war in mind and Joshua’s past, we headed to his church.
Meeting Joshua Milton Blahyi
We arrived in Chocolate City Sunday morning and received a huge welcoming from Joshua and his congregation. To my surprise Joshua had the exact same clothes on. Our shirt and tie were exactly the same, and as I stood there I knew it was God confirming his presence and sovereignty in our visit. The service opened with some beautiful singing which truly ministered to everyone in attendance. Next Joshua called all the children to the front and congratulated all of the children who had passed and would be moving on to the next grade in school. His own daughter was graduating from elementary school to junior high school, and he could not be more proud.
Joshua spoke on raising up the next generation and how for Liberia it was the children that were most important. He called it “effective generational transfer” and how the parents and the church should be intentional in transferring faith in Jesus Christ to its next generation. He used the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15 as his example, which was a very different interpretation than most of us Americans were used to hearing. I saw it as only fitting that the members of our trip were young-adults that will be leading the next generation of 12Stone, most of our trip was focused on the next generation of Liberia, and that Joshua preached on raising the next generation in faith in Jesus Christ as we concluded our trip. To close the service our team was invited up front to pray for the church and for Liberia, so invited all the children to come up to the front and pray along with us. One of the young girls lead us in prayer and I closed.
Lunch with Joshua
After service we had time to sit down for lunch with Joshua so we all decided to go back to the Lebanese restaurant to eat. On the way to the restaurant we traveled along the road that Joshua and his me n where in control of during the war. He then took us to the spot where he had his revelation and first heard from Jesus Christ. The entire team was compelled by his honesty, and intrigued by his testimony.
Arriving at the restaurant I had several questions for Joshua. I had to know if he was the real deal and a true follower of Jesus or if he was just claiming the name of Jesus in order to have the people of Liberia forgive him for what he did during the war. He was completely open and honest about his life and he did not shy away from a single question that I or the team had. The food at Sajj was awesome again, but hearing Joshua tell his story made it even better.
Concluding lunch with Joshua our team prayed for him and his ministry, and thanked him for spending time with us. He left us with some books and cds of his testimony. I was able to read his book over our trip home, and I must say that he is the real deal. Jesus Christ has truly brought him out of darkness and into the life of light that he is living now. I am so thankful for God allowing me and the team to meet with a man that he has transformed in such a drastic way. Joshua is not a war hero nor a celebrity, but a repentant sinner that has been forgiven by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Going Home
Leaving Joshua at Sajj, Victor our driver took us to the airport. It was bitter sweet knowing that we would be leaving Liberia, but we were all thankful to be coming home. We said our goodbyes to Victor and William while Rodney and Dave met us at the airport and we checked in to go home. I personally did not want to leave after seeing all God was doing in Liberia, but I know he has more in-store for all of us as we return home.
The younger members of our team headed to Chocolate City to visit Joshua and his church while our elders Dave and Rodney went to Robert Cuppah’s church. For Cuppah’s church Dave was asked to lead a lesson for Sunday school while Rodney preached the sermon for the congregation. I wish we all could have been there, but our experience with Joshua was one that I will never forget.
Joshua Milton Blahyi is known as General Butt Naked by most of Liberia, because of his previous life during the war. He was a traditional tribal priest from the same tribe as the late President Samuel K. Doe, and he was a man of major influence during the war. His priesthood was under a demonic deity and human sacrifice was a common practice of worship within his tribe. When war broke out between his tribe and Charles Taylor he became known as General Butt Naked, because he and his men would fight naked. Coming from this lifestyle or deity worship, war, and human sacrifice Joshua has a redemptive story of how Jesus Christ lead him to repentance and salvation in him.
Hearing the story of Joshua Blahyi (former General Butt Naked) prior to going to Liberia, he was a man my team had to meet. I had to see with my own eyes if he was the real deal. The team had to see how Jesus Christ can change a man previously known as a murderer and a rapist to an evangelist in the name of Jesus Christ. With the history of the war in mind and Joshua’s past, we headed to his church.
Meeting Joshua Milton Blahyi
We arrived in Chocolate City Sunday morning and received a huge welcoming from Joshua and his congregation. To my surprise Joshua had the exact same clothes on. Our shirt and tie were exactly the same, and as I stood there I knew it was God confirming his presence and sovereignty in our visit. The service opened with some beautiful singing which truly ministered to everyone in attendance. Next Joshua called all the children to the front and congratulated all of the children who had passed and would be moving on to the next grade in school. His own daughter was graduating from elementary school to junior high school, and he could not be more proud.
Joshua spoke on raising up the next generation and how for Liberia it was the children that were most important. He called it “effective generational transfer” and how the parents and the church should be intentional in transferring faith in Jesus Christ to its next generation. He used the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15 as his example, which was a very different interpretation than most of us Americans were used to hearing. I saw it as only fitting that the members of our trip were young-adults that will be leading the next generation of 12Stone, most of our trip was focused on the next generation of Liberia, and that Joshua preached on raising the next generation in faith in Jesus Christ as we concluded our trip. To close the service our team was invited up front to pray for the church and for Liberia, so invited all the children to come up to the front and pray along with us. One of the young girls lead us in prayer and I closed.
Lunch with Joshua
After service we had time to sit down for lunch with Joshua so we all decided to go back to the Lebanese restaurant to eat. On the way to the restaurant we traveled along the road that Joshua and his me n where in control of during the war. He then took us to the spot where he had his revelation and first heard from Jesus Christ. The entire team was compelled by his honesty, and intrigued by his testimony.
Arriving at the restaurant I had several questions for Joshua. I had to know if he was the real deal and a true follower of Jesus or if he was just claiming the name of Jesus in order to have the people of Liberia forgive him for what he did during the war. He was completely open and honest about his life and he did not shy away from a single question that I or the team had. The food at Sajj was awesome again, but hearing Joshua tell his story made it even better.
Concluding lunch with Joshua our team prayed for him and his ministry, and thanked him for spending time with us. He left us with some books and cds of his testimony. I was able to read his book over our trip home, and I must say that he is the real deal. Jesus Christ has truly brought him out of darkness and into the life of light that he is living now. I am so thankful for God allowing me and the team to meet with a man that he has transformed in such a drastic way. Joshua is not a war hero nor a celebrity, but a repentant sinner that has been forgiven by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Going Home
Leaving Joshua at Sajj, Victor our driver took us to the airport. It was bitter sweet knowing that we would be leaving Liberia, but we were all thankful to be coming home. We said our goodbyes to Victor and William while Rodney and Dave met us at the airport and we checked in to go home. I personally did not want to leave after seeing all God was doing in Liberia, but I know he has more in-store for all of us as we return home.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Chris Beran- (Day 14) AGLOW with Neil Anderson, and Senator John A. Ballout, Jr. / Lebanese Restaurant
Today began with our breakfast with the senate. The turnout was a little less than expected but we had the opportunity and privilege to meet and talk with the Senator from Maryland County and also 5 or 6 others in connection or position with the Liberian Government. Also attending the breakfast was Neil Anderson and his team. It has been such an awesome experience spending time with and listening to Dr. Anderson speak. It is obvious that God is moving through him and it was such a great opportunity to listen to him share his testimony this morning.
After we left the breakfast we came back to Christine’s compound to relax for a bit before dinner at a Lebanese restaurant. The restaurant was called Sajj and I think everyone on the team has found a new love for Lebanese food. Deb from Orphan Relief and Rescue was able to join us along with a friend of theirs visiting from Holland.
From Sajj we headed out of town to visit Pastor Joshua. Joshua is a former Sr. General from the war whose life has been transformed by God and he is now a strong follower of Christ and a traveling evangelist. After driving for about 45 min we hit some really bad traffic. There is only one road that leads to the town he lives in and it was completely blocked. It would have taken us hours just to get through the intersection. We decided it would be best to turn around and head back since it was already getting late. Today we learned that you should not plan anything that you have to drive to on Saturday nights in Liberia. The traffic here on Saturday nights makes Atlanta rush hour seem like a piece of cake. At least in Atlanta if a car is in the way and the driver won’t move, people don’t take it upon themselves to move that car by pushing it with their car. It was a very interesting ride home to say the least.
After we left the breakfast we came back to Christine’s compound to relax for a bit before dinner at a Lebanese restaurant. The restaurant was called Sajj and I think everyone on the team has found a new love for Lebanese food. Deb from Orphan Relief and Rescue was able to join us along with a friend of theirs visiting from Holland.
From Sajj we headed out of town to visit Pastor Joshua. Joshua is a former Sr. General from the war whose life has been transformed by God and he is now a strong follower of Christ and a traveling evangelist. After driving for about 45 min we hit some really bad traffic. There is only one road that leads to the town he lives in and it was completely blocked. It would have taken us hours just to get through the intersection. We decided it would be best to turn around and head back since it was already getting late. Today we learned that you should not plan anything that you have to drive to on Saturday nights in Liberia. The traffic here on Saturday nights makes Atlanta rush hour seem like a piece of cake. At least in Atlanta if a car is in the way and the driver won’t move, people don’t take it upon themselves to move that car by pushing it with their car. It was a very interesting ride home to say the least.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Diana Davies and serving those who serve us at home
Our days in Liberia are quickly coming to an end. It feels like yesterday that we were first stepping off the airplane and getting marriage proposals. Waking up this morning, we knew that this was our last day with children, and we hoped to pour all the energy and love we had into Diana Davies.
Today was a perfect day to end our time out in the field. Every moment was precious. From the children teaching us songs and giving us necklaces to touring their school and playing futbol, the day was full of joy. It all began with singing songs, sharing the gospel and making bracelets together. After we led them in song and story, they had a few songs to teach us as well. Once again, we were taken back at how beautiful they can sing. Their harmonies and rhythm were phenomenal. We wanted to bottle it up and take it back to the States. Following their songs, they introduced us to their staff and we prayed over each other. They even gave us necklaces to say thanks for visiting them.
During our small group time, we explained the gospel again and made bracelets to help them remember it. They did a fantastic job making their bracelets and had every verse memorized by the end of the session. It’s clear that they are immersed in strong Biblical principles and teachings. After making bracelets, all the children ran outside to play. They braided our hair, played jump rope and sang songs with us. All they wanted was our attention and love, nothing else. It reminded me of God’s affection towards us. All he desires from his children is to love and seek him more. How beautiful.
When it came time for lunch, we were surprised to find that they had prepared a feast for us. Rice, donuts, pineapple, chicken and plantains filled the table. It was simply delicious, and we were all incredibly grateful for their hospitality. Happy and full from lunch, we met back up with the children to pray and walk to their school.
We walked down a windy road to find their school. The school is phenomenal, holding over 500 students comfortably. Words cannot explain how excited we were when we walked from room to room noticing textbooks, desks, learning materials and resources. Not only is it an incredible environment for the students to learn in, but also allows the children to study through 12th grade. There are few programs in Liberia that go through Senior year.
After the tour, the older boys played a serious game of futbol, while the girls played kickball. Diana Davies shared with a few of us some stories about the war and how the children came to her orphanage. Most of the children lost parents during the war, and since adoption is closed in Liberia, the children had no place to go. It’s upsetting to think of how many children were left as orphans because of the war, but at the same time, it’s encouraging to know that there are places like Diana Davies that can take care of the children’s physical and spiritual needs. However, that didn’t stop me from wanting to take a couple children home with me. They are too precious.
It truly was difficult to say goodbye. This was our last time with the children of Liberia. Hopefully, we’ll be able to return again. Please pray that God will continue to provide for the Diana Davies orphanage. That He will continue to give the staff strength and the funds to be able to fully take care of the children’s needs.
As for the evening, the girls and guys each spent time together. The guys, along with our drivers, Victor and William, went out for a night on the town. The women stayed home to help cook and have a “spa” night with Louis, our cook, and the young women who live with Christine. We had a blast painting their nails, playing games and having a girl’s night! It was appreciated.
Thank you for keeping up with our daily journeys and for your prayers. God Bless!
Today was a perfect day to end our time out in the field. Every moment was precious. From the children teaching us songs and giving us necklaces to touring their school and playing futbol, the day was full of joy. It all began with singing songs, sharing the gospel and making bracelets together. After we led them in song and story, they had a few songs to teach us as well. Once again, we were taken back at how beautiful they can sing. Their harmonies and rhythm were phenomenal. We wanted to bottle it up and take it back to the States. Following their songs, they introduced us to their staff and we prayed over each other. They even gave us necklaces to say thanks for visiting them.
During our small group time, we explained the gospel again and made bracelets to help them remember it. They did a fantastic job making their bracelets and had every verse memorized by the end of the session. It’s clear that they are immersed in strong Biblical principles and teachings. After making bracelets, all the children ran outside to play. They braided our hair, played jump rope and sang songs with us. All they wanted was our attention and love, nothing else. It reminded me of God’s affection towards us. All he desires from his children is to love and seek him more. How beautiful.
When it came time for lunch, we were surprised to find that they had prepared a feast for us. Rice, donuts, pineapple, chicken and plantains filled the table. It was simply delicious, and we were all incredibly grateful for their hospitality. Happy and full from lunch, we met back up with the children to pray and walk to their school.
We walked down a windy road to find their school. The school is phenomenal, holding over 500 students comfortably. Words cannot explain how excited we were when we walked from room to room noticing textbooks, desks, learning materials and resources. Not only is it an incredible environment for the students to learn in, but also allows the children to study through 12th grade. There are few programs in Liberia that go through Senior year.
After the tour, the older boys played a serious game of futbol, while the girls played kickball. Diana Davies shared with a few of us some stories about the war and how the children came to her orphanage. Most of the children lost parents during the war, and since adoption is closed in Liberia, the children had no place to go. It’s upsetting to think of how many children were left as orphans because of the war, but at the same time, it’s encouraging to know that there are places like Diana Davies that can take care of the children’s physical and spiritual needs. However, that didn’t stop me from wanting to take a couple children home with me. They are too precious.
It truly was difficult to say goodbye. This was our last time with the children of Liberia. Hopefully, we’ll be able to return again. Please pray that God will continue to provide for the Diana Davies orphanage. That He will continue to give the staff strength and the funds to be able to fully take care of the children’s needs.
As for the evening, the girls and guys each spent time together. The guys, along with our drivers, Victor and William, went out for a night on the town. The women stayed home to help cook and have a “spa” night with Louis, our cook, and the young women who live with Christine. We had a blast painting their nails, playing games and having a girl’s night! It was appreciated.
Thank you for keeping up with our daily journeys and for your prayers. God Bless!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Dimitri - Diana Davies Orphanage and FICM with Dr. Neil Anderson (Day 12)
Today we had the opportunity to spend the first half of our day revisiting the Diana Davies Orphanage. This has been an orphanage we have frequented since the first WE Liberia trip. The first group from 2 and a half years ago laid the foundation by spending almost all the time installing a generator and building a generator shed for it. What we found there this year was more than encouraging.
First off, I’d like to state that even though the majority of us had never been to Diana Davies before, as soon as we arrived after our long ride, we felt like we were returning home to family and were welcomed and loved beyond what we could have asked for. What was amazing about Diana Davies not solely the love they showed us, not just the gratitude they had for our visit, the beautiful songs they sang for us, or the beautiful character the kids have been developing exhibited, what amazed us the most was the great stewardship and progress of the orphanage. Two and a half years ago, the first team installed the electricity generator. This was great obviously because it gives the orphanage electricity and light. However with the generator they have not simply lit up their orphanage. They have developed a cold water/ice business where they use the electricity and freezer that was donated to them to produce and sell cold water to the community, the revenue they get from the business not only sustains their generator and allows more fuel to be purchased, but these young orphans are being taught simple and crucial sustained business and self discipline. In addition to the cold water business they had sewing machines donated to them a couple of years ago, and not only have the kids learned how to sow, but they are able to sell things they make and make money off of that too. And since we have last been to Liberia, with the money they have been able to make, Diana Davies has expanded their clinic and made themselves available to the community around them that need healthcare. And not only that, but they have now built a school that has taken in hundreds and hundreds of children to provide an education! So, in sum, starting 2 and half years ago with a generator donation and installation, not only have these kids been trained in business and sustainability, but they have made themselves accessible to their surrounding community as a beacon of light in the darkness. Absolutely beautiful, what hope, what progress.
While we were there we were able to sing songs with the kids, today we added “Father Abraham” to the mix and it was quite the hit. Then Brad shared the Bible lesson, and then we colored and spent some time with the kids. After the coloring we broke off into small groups and spend time in discussion with the kids. I personally loved this, I had a group of 5 guys, ages 14 to 15, and I went into it having no idea where discussion would go, I simply left it in the Lord’s hands. The guys quickly started asking me deep questions that stirred good spiritual discussion, questions such as “why is God a jealous God? “ or “what exactly does it mean to have an idol in your life?”. Unfortunately we had to cut our time at Diana Davies short today, because we were invited to be a part of a conference by Freedom in Christ Ministries with Dr. Neil Anderson. So we ate some donuts that they kindly made for us and headed on out.
It was quite a ride in traffic on the way to the conference, but absolutely worth it. First off, what an honor to be a part of this conference, not only because Dr. Neil Anderson was in Liberia, but because we had the opportunity to be in a room full of church leaders from across Liberia that gathered together to hear Dr. Anderson speak. He has great content, if you have not heard of him or read any of his books I would personally greatly advise it. After the conference was over we returned home here, and to our surprise our host Christine invited Dr. Anderson back here, so we had the honor of having dinner with him. And that concludes our day; tomorrow we spend the majority of the day with Diana Davies orphanage again, looking forward to that. Right now it’s raining, and it’s great. The end. I love you mom.
First off, I’d like to state that even though the majority of us had never been to Diana Davies before, as soon as we arrived after our long ride, we felt like we were returning home to family and were welcomed and loved beyond what we could have asked for. What was amazing about Diana Davies not solely the love they showed us, not just the gratitude they had for our visit, the beautiful songs they sang for us, or the beautiful character the kids have been developing exhibited, what amazed us the most was the great stewardship and progress of the orphanage. Two and a half years ago, the first team installed the electricity generator. This was great obviously because it gives the orphanage electricity and light. However with the generator they have not simply lit up their orphanage. They have developed a cold water/ice business where they use the electricity and freezer that was donated to them to produce and sell cold water to the community, the revenue they get from the business not only sustains their generator and allows more fuel to be purchased, but these young orphans are being taught simple and crucial sustained business and self discipline. In addition to the cold water business they had sewing machines donated to them a couple of years ago, and not only have the kids learned how to sow, but they are able to sell things they make and make money off of that too. And since we have last been to Liberia, with the money they have been able to make, Diana Davies has expanded their clinic and made themselves available to the community around them that need healthcare. And not only that, but they have now built a school that has taken in hundreds and hundreds of children to provide an education! So, in sum, starting 2 and half years ago with a generator donation and installation, not only have these kids been trained in business and sustainability, but they have made themselves accessible to their surrounding community as a beacon of light in the darkness. Absolutely beautiful, what hope, what progress.
While we were there we were able to sing songs with the kids, today we added “Father Abraham” to the mix and it was quite the hit. Then Brad shared the Bible lesson, and then we colored and spent some time with the kids. After the coloring we broke off into small groups and spend time in discussion with the kids. I personally loved this, I had a group of 5 guys, ages 14 to 15, and I went into it having no idea where discussion would go, I simply left it in the Lord’s hands. The guys quickly started asking me deep questions that stirred good spiritual discussion, questions such as “why is God a jealous God? “ or “what exactly does it mean to have an idol in your life?”. Unfortunately we had to cut our time at Diana Davies short today, because we were invited to be a part of a conference by Freedom in Christ Ministries with Dr. Neil Anderson. So we ate some donuts that they kindly made for us and headed on out.
It was quite a ride in traffic on the way to the conference, but absolutely worth it. First off, what an honor to be a part of this conference, not only because Dr. Neil Anderson was in Liberia, but because we had the opportunity to be in a room full of church leaders from across Liberia that gathered together to hear Dr. Anderson speak. He has great content, if you have not heard of him or read any of his books I would personally greatly advise it. After the conference was over we returned home here, and to our surprise our host Christine invited Dr. Anderson back here, so we had the honor of having dinner with him. And that concludes our day; tomorrow we spend the majority of the day with Diana Davies orphanage again, looking forward to that. Right now it’s raining, and it’s great. The end. I love you mom.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Brad (Day 11) - STS Container, JFK Hospital, Neil Anderson Dinner
Morning
I knew today would be a challenge from the start by the way everyone staggered out of bed and into our devotion this morning. Rachel lead our devotion with Habakkuk 1:5 and 3:2 and how we should look and watch to be utterly amazed at what God is doing and will do. The scripture helped to energize myself and the team as we ate breakfast quickly and headed off to ELWA.
The Service to Servants container was set to unload in the morning so went over to ELWA where the entire container was being unloaded in front of an old gymnasium. With our help a group of 10 Liberian men unloaded the 40 foot container in an hour and a half. It was encouraging to see all the supplies section off for many of the organizations that we were able to work with earlier during the trip. We were also able to place the donations our team was given for Liberia in with the other supplies for the organizations. We were able to specifically bless THINK, Orphan Relief & Rescue, Rafiki Village, ELWA Hospital, and Febe Grey Orphanage with some extra supplies.
For once we completed a task with time to spare, so we all walked down to the beach at ELWA for a break while we waited for the next thing our day had to bring. Most of the team used the time at the beach to take a midday siesta after eating our sandwich lunches there. It was a well needed rest period for a tired group. I spent the time praying over our team in preparation for going to JFK Hospital and mediating on Acts 3. During our peaceful time in the sand I knew God was preparing to reveal his heart through a thunderous wave.
John F. Kennedy Hospital
We headed off to John F. Kennedy Hospital with our friend Andy, a pre-med student on mission with Hospitals for Hope. Our hope on arrival was to fulfill what God had placed on our hearts; that he would move in a supernatural way through us to heal. And with this prayer on arrival, exiting the hospital I would say that the prompt that was placed on the team was fulfilled.
Our first visit in the hospital was to the pediatric ward. The children there were suffering from anything from measles, to cancer, to paralysis. It was discouraging to see children hurting, but the hearts of the nurses and doctors for their patients helped to lift the team. The majority of our time was spent in this pediatric ward, and we left wishing God had more time for us to spend there. The team prayed for every single child and mother or family member in the ward at least once if not multiple times. A good bit of time was also spent just encouraging all the people we met. Kristin, Taylor, and Chris colored with the kids that were well enough to get out of their beds, and Dave used his Donald Duck voice to entertain one baby and her mother. Dimitri, Rachel, and myself continued with our prayer walk during this time, until Rachel stopped to spend time with a girl who was paralyzed from the waist down and mentally disabled. Following this time of encouragement, we transitioned into a time of prayer for this one specific boy who God had laid heavily on the hearts of the team.
Mishel
Mishel is a 14 year old boy who is paralyzed from the waist down. He was admitted into the hospital on June 7th with lower back pain that progressively got worse and lead to his paralysis. It’s hard to imagine that a young boy walked into the hospital and became paralyzed all during the time our team has been in Liberia. Mishel simply fell on his lower back and after a few weeks of unbearable pain he lost movement from the waist down. Dimitri, myself and a few others from the team had prayed for him many times throughout our time there, but it was about 3:00 when we were really lead to corporately pray for him. Rachel, Dimitri, and I prayed for Mishel and left him with an e-mail address to contact Dimitri right before we were planning on transitioning to another part of the hospital. Rachel overall felt out of her comfort zone in the hospital, but she felt pressed that we were not done with Mishel.
With God prompting Rachel our entire team headed back into the Pediatric ward to specifically pray over Mishel. We prayed that God would physically heal him and that he would walk, because we knew as a team that was what God wanted for him. With tears, shouts, and praise we called out to God on behalf of Mishel and his legs. Dave even brought out the anointing oil for this young boy, and the boy began to weep as the team continued to pray. We all wanted to sit Mishel up and bring him to his feet so that he could walk, but with our hearts aligned we knew that it must be Mishel that first believed for himself that Jesus would be the one to heal him with his almighty power. We left without Mishel getting up to walk, but we left knowing and believing that God will allow him to begin walking one day very soon; if not tonight. With Acts 3 in mind we still know God to be a healer, but during my prayer for Mishel he placed another Scripture on my heart. The verse was Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see”. This verse struck me as if God was saying that we must be certain that God is a healer and will heal Mishel without being able to see him walk. We will continue to pray for him, and I can’t wait for the day that he e-mails Dimitri about Jesus Christ being a healer Mishel walking again.
Surgery/ Orthopedic Ward
Leaving the Pediatric ward we were able to spend a short time praying and getting to know the nurses and patients in the surgery/ orthopedic ward. All of the patients on this floor were recovering from some time of recent surgery. Most of the patients we prayed for were from motorcycle accidents. There were also a few burn victims that Taylor and the girls did an amazing job looking after. The nurses and the patients were all extremely joyous to have us, and we were also able to give out cross necklaces to all the patients we prayed for and all the nurses we saw. Andy was a terrific guide and we were more than thankful to have him with us.
Johnson and his room
I prayed with a man named Johnson in the hallway while he was using a walker to walk and recover from a motorcycle accident that had badly damaged his leg. I gave him a cross and didn’t think much of it until 2 minutes later I see him waving and calling me over. He called me over to his room where there were 4 more men in there with him. As soon as I entered the room he told me I had more people that needed prayer. I prayed over the four other men and gave them crosses as well, but the humility and ask of Johnson really struck me. He didn’t have to do anything for those men, but he wasn’t going to let me leave without praying for them. There are some extremely amazing stories that came from our visit to JFK and it was all because of my sister Taylor and her heart for the hurting that we decided to go.
Surfing
Our final beach trip for our stay in Liberia took us back to Kendeja Hotel and Myrtle Beach for an attempt at surfing. The waves were extremely rough, so everyone got beat up again, but it was another joy. Our friends from Orphan Relief & Rescue joined us with their surf boards and tried to teach some of us to surf. Dimitri and I learned from Josh and Sam, but it was difficult to learn in only an hour time span. The closest I got to surfing was riding the wave on my knees a couple times, but at least I can say I did that much. Having an hour to learn how to surf before dinner was something I never expected on arriving here.
Dinner
We rushed from the beach to dinner with Christine our host. She held a dinner for a man that we will be going to hear speak tomorrow by the name of Neil Anderson. The food was great as always, but it was nice to eat and talk with some new folks for dinner. We also had a lawyer and a Liberian congress-woman join us for dinner which was huge for us. With Christine included with our highly-esteemed company we were able to dine with some great leaders, who were able to inspire my team.
Be Praying for my Amazing Team
Ending today I couldn’t be more proud of my team. I have pushed everyone as hard as I could they are all still standing and ready for more. I have an extremely strong team and I can’t stop thanking God for all of them. God has much more in-store for our team so please continue to pray for everyone here that we may finish strong and complete the work our Lord Jesus has for us.
Thanks and God Bless,
Brad Chahoy
I knew today would be a challenge from the start by the way everyone staggered out of bed and into our devotion this morning. Rachel lead our devotion with Habakkuk 1:5 and 3:2 and how we should look and watch to be utterly amazed at what God is doing and will do. The scripture helped to energize myself and the team as we ate breakfast quickly and headed off to ELWA.
The Service to Servants container was set to unload in the morning so went over to ELWA where the entire container was being unloaded in front of an old gymnasium. With our help a group of 10 Liberian men unloaded the 40 foot container in an hour and a half. It was encouraging to see all the supplies section off for many of the organizations that we were able to work with earlier during the trip. We were also able to place the donations our team was given for Liberia in with the other supplies for the organizations. We were able to specifically bless THINK, Orphan Relief & Rescue, Rafiki Village, ELWA Hospital, and Febe Grey Orphanage with some extra supplies.
For once we completed a task with time to spare, so we all walked down to the beach at ELWA for a break while we waited for the next thing our day had to bring. Most of the team used the time at the beach to take a midday siesta after eating our sandwich lunches there. It was a well needed rest period for a tired group. I spent the time praying over our team in preparation for going to JFK Hospital and mediating on Acts 3. During our peaceful time in the sand I knew God was preparing to reveal his heart through a thunderous wave.
John F. Kennedy Hospital
We headed off to John F. Kennedy Hospital with our friend Andy, a pre-med student on mission with Hospitals for Hope. Our hope on arrival was to fulfill what God had placed on our hearts; that he would move in a supernatural way through us to heal. And with this prayer on arrival, exiting the hospital I would say that the prompt that was placed on the team was fulfilled.
Our first visit in the hospital was to the pediatric ward. The children there were suffering from anything from measles, to cancer, to paralysis. It was discouraging to see children hurting, but the hearts of the nurses and doctors for their patients helped to lift the team. The majority of our time was spent in this pediatric ward, and we left wishing God had more time for us to spend there. The team prayed for every single child and mother or family member in the ward at least once if not multiple times. A good bit of time was also spent just encouraging all the people we met. Kristin, Taylor, and Chris colored with the kids that were well enough to get out of their beds, and Dave used his Donald Duck voice to entertain one baby and her mother. Dimitri, Rachel, and myself continued with our prayer walk during this time, until Rachel stopped to spend time with a girl who was paralyzed from the waist down and mentally disabled. Following this time of encouragement, we transitioned into a time of prayer for this one specific boy who God had laid heavily on the hearts of the team.
Mishel
Mishel is a 14 year old boy who is paralyzed from the waist down. He was admitted into the hospital on June 7th with lower back pain that progressively got worse and lead to his paralysis. It’s hard to imagine that a young boy walked into the hospital and became paralyzed all during the time our team has been in Liberia. Mishel simply fell on his lower back and after a few weeks of unbearable pain he lost movement from the waist down. Dimitri, myself and a few others from the team had prayed for him many times throughout our time there, but it was about 3:00 when we were really lead to corporately pray for him. Rachel, Dimitri, and I prayed for Mishel and left him with an e-mail address to contact Dimitri right before we were planning on transitioning to another part of the hospital. Rachel overall felt out of her comfort zone in the hospital, but she felt pressed that we were not done with Mishel.
With God prompting Rachel our entire team headed back into the Pediatric ward to specifically pray over Mishel. We prayed that God would physically heal him and that he would walk, because we knew as a team that was what God wanted for him. With tears, shouts, and praise we called out to God on behalf of Mishel and his legs. Dave even brought out the anointing oil for this young boy, and the boy began to weep as the team continued to pray. We all wanted to sit Mishel up and bring him to his feet so that he could walk, but with our hearts aligned we knew that it must be Mishel that first believed for himself that Jesus would be the one to heal him with his almighty power. We left without Mishel getting up to walk, but we left knowing and believing that God will allow him to begin walking one day very soon; if not tonight. With Acts 3 in mind we still know God to be a healer, but during my prayer for Mishel he placed another Scripture on my heart. The verse was Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see”. This verse struck me as if God was saying that we must be certain that God is a healer and will heal Mishel without being able to see him walk. We will continue to pray for him, and I can’t wait for the day that he e-mails Dimitri about Jesus Christ being a healer Mishel walking again.
Surgery/ Orthopedic Ward
Leaving the Pediatric ward we were able to spend a short time praying and getting to know the nurses and patients in the surgery/ orthopedic ward. All of the patients on this floor were recovering from some time of recent surgery. Most of the patients we prayed for were from motorcycle accidents. There were also a few burn victims that Taylor and the girls did an amazing job looking after. The nurses and the patients were all extremely joyous to have us, and we were also able to give out cross necklaces to all the patients we prayed for and all the nurses we saw. Andy was a terrific guide and we were more than thankful to have him with us.
Johnson and his room
I prayed with a man named Johnson in the hallway while he was using a walker to walk and recover from a motorcycle accident that had badly damaged his leg. I gave him a cross and didn’t think much of it until 2 minutes later I see him waving and calling me over. He called me over to his room where there were 4 more men in there with him. As soon as I entered the room he told me I had more people that needed prayer. I prayed over the four other men and gave them crosses as well, but the humility and ask of Johnson really struck me. He didn’t have to do anything for those men, but he wasn’t going to let me leave without praying for them. There are some extremely amazing stories that came from our visit to JFK and it was all because of my sister Taylor and her heart for the hurting that we decided to go.
Surfing
Our final beach trip for our stay in Liberia took us back to Kendeja Hotel and Myrtle Beach for an attempt at surfing. The waves were extremely rough, so everyone got beat up again, but it was another joy. Our friends from Orphan Relief & Rescue joined us with their surf boards and tried to teach some of us to surf. Dimitri and I learned from Josh and Sam, but it was difficult to learn in only an hour time span. The closest I got to surfing was riding the wave on my knees a couple times, but at least I can say I did that much. Having an hour to learn how to surf before dinner was something I never expected on arriving here.
Dinner
We rushed from the beach to dinner with Christine our host. She held a dinner for a man that we will be going to hear speak tomorrow by the name of Neil Anderson. The food was great as always, but it was nice to eat and talk with some new folks for dinner. We also had a lawyer and a Liberian congress-woman join us for dinner which was huge for us. With Christine included with our highly-esteemed company we were able to dine with some great leaders, who were able to inspire my team.
Be Praying for my Amazing Team
Ending today I couldn’t be more proud of my team. I have pushed everyone as hard as I could they are all still standing and ready for more. I have an extremely strong team and I can’t stop thanking God for all of them. God has much more in-store for our team so please continue to pray for everyone here that we may finish strong and complete the work our Lord Jesus has for us.
Thanks and God Bless,
Brad Chahoy
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)